STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Fascination"
#40513-456
Story by
Ira Steven Behr & James Crocker
Teleplay by
Philip LaZebnik
Directed by
Avery Brooks
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1994 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
Return to Script Department FINAL DRAFT
PARAMOUNT PICTURES CORPORATION
October 10, 1994
STAR TREK: DS9 - "Defiant" 10/06/94 - CAST
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Fascination"
CAST
SISKO LWAXANA TROI
KIRA BAREIL
ODO
BASHIR
QUARK
DAX
O'BRIEN
JAKE
KEIKO
MOLLY
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES N.D. BAJORANS
STAR TREK DEEP SPACE NINE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - SETS
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Fascination"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE
SISKO'S QUARTERS
REPLIMAT
PROMENADE/SECOND LEVEL
DOCKING RING CORRIDOR
SECURITY OFFICE
TURBOLIFT
KIRA'S QUARTERS
O'BRIEN'S QUARTERS
QUARK'S/SECOND LEVEL
CORRIDOR
WARDROOM
SURGERY
STAR TREK: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Fascination"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
ALMATHA AL-mah-thuh
ERMAT ER-mot
NEKESIL nuh-KEH-sill
REDAB REE-dab
REGULUS REG-you-lus
(hard "G")
SEBARR suh-BAR.
zimm ZIM
HASPERAT HAS-per-uht
PELDOR JOI PEL-door JOY
BAJORAN BLESSING:
TESRA PELDOR IMPATRI BREN. BENTEL VETAN ULLON STEN.
TESS-ra PEL-dor im-POT-ree BREN.
BEN-tell VEY-tahn 00-lon STEN.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Fascination"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 INT. SISKO'S QUARTERS
JAKE is lying slumped on the couch, looking thoroughly
miserable. He's spinning a fancy Bajoran earring around on
his finger, looking at it like it's the cause of all his
troubles.
SISKO ENTERS looking relaxed and happy.
SISKO
I didn't expect to find you here. I
thought you'd be down on the
Promenade, helping Mardah put up
decorations for the Bajoran Gratitude
Festival.
JAKE
That was the plan... but it turns
out I don't have much to be grateful
for.
And with that he holds up the earring so that Sisko can see
it.
SISKO
Isn't that the earring you...
JAKE
Bought for Mardah. Yeah, you want
it? Maybe you could give it to Major
Kira for her next birthday or
something.
Sisko sits down and puts on his concerned look, though at
least a part of him is relieved at what he's sure has
happened.
SISKO
All right, tell me all about it.
JAKE
Mardah's gone, Dad. She got accepted
to the Science Academy on Regulus
Three.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - TEASER 2.
1 CONTINUED:
SISKO
That's a good school.
JAKE
It's three hundred light years away.
SISKO
Jake, you're sixteen; take my word
for it, you'll survive.
Jake looks unconvinced.
SISKO
(continues)
Now you can either wallow here in
self-pity, or go off to the Gratitude
Festival and try to have a good time.
JAKE
Right now, I'd rather wallow.
SISKO
You're entitled. But remember, you're
a sweet, good-looking guy...
(smiles)
Just like your old man.
146:[1,#b]
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - TEASER 3.
1 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO (Cont'd)
Sooner or later, you'll find someone
else. Who knows... maybe you'll
meet someone tonight at the Festival.
JAKE
Yeah, sure.
SISKO
Jake, the whole point of the festival
is to put your troubles behind you
and make a new start.
JAKE
I could use one.
(makes his decision)
Okay... I'll go.
Jake says this with such solemnity that Sisko can't help but
smile.
SISKO
(claps Jake on the
shoulder)
That's the spirit.
JAKE
But I'm not going to have any fun.
2 INT. REPLIMAT
BASHIR and O'BRIEN are sitting together, drinking coffee.
The Replimat is empty, except for the two of them.
BASHIR
Nervous, Chief?
O'BRIEN
What are you talking about?
BASHIR
That's your fifth cup of coffee in
twenty minutes.
O'BRIEN
I didn't know you were keeping track.
BASHIR
Ah, nervous and irascible.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - TEASER 4.
2 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Look if you hadn't seen your wife
and child for two months, you'd be
irascible, too.
BASHIR
Believe me, I'm looking forward to
Keiko and Molly's visit just as much
as you are.
O'BRIEN
I doubt that.
BASHIR
How many games of racquetball have
you and I played in the last two
months?
O'BRIEN
Oh, I don't know... fifteen, maybe
twenty.
BASHIR
Try seventy. I've been keeping track
of that, too. And you know what all
those games have proved to me?
(a beat)
That I'm a poor substitute for your
wife.
O'BRIEN
I could've told you that sixty games
ago.
(a beat)
The thing is... they're only going
to be here for two days. That's
barely time to say hello. And then
they're back to Bajor for four more
months.
BASHIR
Four months. That's probably another
hundred and fifty games of
racquetball. I don't know if my
elbow can take that kind of abuse.
Maybe you can convince her not to
leave.
O'BRIEN
Oh, no. I can't do that. I'm the
one who suggested she go on that
agrobiology expedition in the first
place.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - TEASER 5.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN (Cont'd)
We're just going to have to make the
best of the little time we have.
(determined)
Which means we can't afford to waste
a second of the next two days. And
Julian, whatever you do, don't tell
her how miserable I've been without
her. I don't want her feeling guilty.
BASHIR
My lips are sealed.
(a beat)
So when are they getting here?
O'BRIEN
Twenty minutes.
(beat)
I don't know about you, but I could
use another cup of coffee.
O'Brien gets up to get another cup. Bashir shakes his head.
He senses disaster approaching.
3 INT. PROMENADE
The Promenade has been decorated with numerous brightly
colored banners. Aside from a few Bajorans who are installing
a large circular brazier on a platform in front of the Bajoran
Temple, there's basically no one around.
KIRA is watching the preparations when ODO approaches her.
KIRA
Peldor Joi, Odo.
ODO
Peldor Joi to you, too. It's hard
to believe the Promenade is this
empty at midday.
KIRA
Calm before the storm. In a few
hours, this place will be packed
with Bajorans celebrating the
festival.
ODO
Actually, I was thinking I might
join you this year.
KIRA
Really?
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - TEASER 6.
3 CONTINUED:
ODO
I don't see why not. My Bajoran
deputies never work during the
Gratitude Festival; why should I?
(a beat)
Besides, if I'm going to live here
with you humanoids, I may as well
immerse myself in your rituals.
KIRA
Who knows, you might even enjoy
yourself.
ODO
I suppose there is that possibility.
KIRA
Maybe we'll see each other later.
ODO
I'd like that... if you're not too
busy being the Presider of the
Festival.
KIRA
For you, I'll make time, Odo.
Odo smiles, pleased.
KIRA
Just look for me. I'll be with
Bareil.
Odo tries to hide his disappointment.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - TEASER 7.
3 CONTINUED: (2)
ODO
Oh, I thought he'd be celebrating
the Festival on Bajor.
KIRA
So did I... but I'm glad I was wrong.
He's coming in on the next shuttle.
ODO
Then you'd better go. It'll be here
soon.
Kira realizes she's lost track of time.
KIRA
You're right. I'll see you at the
festival.
Odo nods as Kira races off. Odo watches her go, the faintest
trace of regret on his face.
4 INT. DOCKING RING CORRIDOR
Kira arrives at the airlock and finds O'Brien already waiting.
KIRA
Chief?
O'BRIEN
(surprised to see her)
Major.
O'Brien nods toward the airlock.
O'BRIEN
(explaining himself)
Keiko.
KIRA
Bareil.
O'BRIEN
Good luck.
KIRA
You, too.
5 NEW ANGLE
As the door opens and BAREIL EXITS.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - TEASER 8.
5 CONTINUED:
BAREIL
Nerys.
He goes to Kira and they kiss.
BAREIL
I'm so glad to see you.
KIRA
I've missed you.
BAREIL
I've missed you, too.
6 CLOSE ON O'BRIEN
As he watches Kira and Bareil's happy reunion. This is
exactly what he was hoping for with Keiko. Kira and Bareil
EXIT.
KEIKO (O.S.)
Miles?
O'Brien turns and sees...
7 KEIKO AND MOLLY
Emerge from the airlock. He was so lost in thought, he missed
their arrival.
O'BRIEN
(excited)
Keiko...
(doesn't know what to
say)
I'm... so glad to see you.
He kisses her hello, but she barely returns it.
KEIKO
I'm glad to see you, too. I've just
had the worst trip.
O'BRIEN
Oh... I'm sorry to hear that. But
now that you're here, everything's
going to be great.
Keiko nods, but doesn't seem to be buying it. Trying not to
be discouraged, O'Brien turns his attention to Molly. He
squats to talk face to face with his daughter.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - TEASER 9.
7 CONTINUED:
MOLLY
Hi.
O'BRIEN
Hello, sweetie. You ready to have a
good time with Daddy?
MOLLY
No.
O'BRIEN
Why not?
MOLLY
I don't feel so good.
O'BRIEN
Tell Daddy what's wrong.
But from the look on Molly's face, it seems like Molly is
about to show Daddy what's wrong.
8 CLOSE ON O'BRIEN'S FACE
As his daughter, off-screen, vomits into his lap. Off his
expression...
9 NEW ANGLE
As we hear a familiar voice...
LWAXANA (O.S.)
Oh, you poor dear.
LWAXANA TROI steps out of the airlock, dressed to the hilt.
LWAXANA
I never should've given you all that
candy.
10 CLOSE ON O'BRIEN
And as he realizes things aren't working out exactly as he
planned, we...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT ONE 10.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes)
11 INT. SECURITY OFFICE
Odo is talking to a Starfleet Security Officer, finishing up
briefing him on station security.
ODO
I usually make it a point to stop by
Quark's three or four times a day at
random intervals... just to let him
know that I'm thinking about him.
But seeing that today's a holiday,
and he'll be busier than usual... I
suggest you station a man there full
time.
The Security Officer nods.
ODO
I think that about covers it. If
you need me, I'll be on the
Promenade...
LWAXANA (O.S.)
But don't call unless it's an
emergency.
12 NEW ANGLE
As Odo and the Security Officer turn to find Lwaxana standing
in the doorway.
LWAXANA
The constable will be... occupied.
ODO
(surprised)
Madame Ambassador...
LWAXANA
Do we have to be so formal?
She reaches over and envelopes him in a hug. Odo is
mortified. Lwaxana looks over at the Security Officer, who
is surprised to say the least.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/18/94 - ACT ONE 11.
12 CONTINUED:
LWAXANA
Didn't they teach you any manners at
Starfleet Academy?
The Security Officer looks to Odo who nods.
ODO
Come back in five minutes.
The Security Officer starts to leave.
LWAXANA
(calling after him)
Make that half an hour.
The Security Officer EXITS. Lwaxana is still holding on to
Odo, who slips out of her grasp.
ODO
(almost afraid to ask)
So... what brings you to the station.
LWAXANA
Officially I'm here as the Betazoid
representative to the Gratitude
Festival. But the truth is, I came
to see you. You poor sweet tortured
man.
ODO
Excuse me?
LWAXANA
I know the torment you must be going
through.
Odo doesn't get it. He has no idea what she's talking about.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT ONE 12.
12 CONTINUED: (2)
LWAXANA
To spend your whole life searching
for your people only to discover
that they're the leaders of that
awful Dominion.
ODO
You heard about that?
LWAXANA
When you travel as much as I do, you
make friends everywhere. I like to
think of Admiral Necheyev as the
sister I never had.
(sincere)
Don't worry, Odo. I'm here to help
you.
ODO
What kind of help do you mean?
LWAXANA
A sympathetic ear. A shoulder to
cry on.
(moves closer to him)
A lap to melt in.
Odo backs away a little.
ODO
That's very considerate of you, but
unnecessary. My people are who they
are, and I am who I am... And I've
learned to accept that.
LWAXANA
You brave soul. Why don't we go
someplace quiet so you can tell me
all about it?
ODO
Actually, I was planning to go to
the opening of the Gratitude Festival
this afternoon.
LWAXANA
Even better. First, a little fun
and relaxation, and then we can delve
into the depths of your pain.
(a beat)
I'll freshen up, then I'll meet you
outside the Bajoran Temple for the
Presider's opening address.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT ONE 13.
12 CONTINUED: (3)
She reaches over and caresses his face.
LWAXANA
I promise you, Odo, it's going to be
all right. You're not alone anymore.
Lwaxana sweeps out of the room. Odo watches her go. He'd
been looking forward to the Gratitude Festival, but now Kira
is off with Bareil and he's faced with Hurricane Lwaxana.
13 INT. TURBOLIFT
Lwaxana ENTERS the turbolift.
LWAXANA
Level Twenty-three, Section Eight.
As the turbolift starts to move, Lwaxana experiences a brief,
stabbing headache. She holds her temples for a second, but
it passes as quickly as it came. But even though the pain
is gone, there's a moment of panic and worry on Lwaxana's
face, as if she's had these headaches before.
14 INT. KIRA'S QUARTERS
Kira and Bareil are locked in a warm, friendly, passionate
embrace.
KIRA
We need to see each other more often.
BAREIL
I know. I wish we both weren't so
busy. I never expected Kai Winn to
make me one of her principal advisors.
KIRA
I think she just asks your advice so
she can do the opposite of whatever
you recommend.
BAREIL
I know you don't like Winn, Nerys...
but the office has changed her. The
Prophets chose well.
But this isn't really what Bareil wants to talk about.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT ONE 14.
14 CONTINUED:
BAREIL
(continuing)
So why not leave spiritual matters
in their capable hands and concentrate
on enjoying ourselves?
They kiss, but Kira breaks it off suddenly.
KIRA
I have to go.
BAREIL
But the festival won't be starting
for another hour.
KIRA
I have to set up the Renewal scrolls
along the Promenade. It won't take
long. Jadzia's promised to help.
BAREIL
Of course... Jadzia.
(a beat)
You know, I've never understood how
the two of you could be such good
friends. She's... so unpredictable
and you're so...
KIRA
(smiles)
Predictable?
BAREIL
I didn't mean it like that.
(a beat)
It's just that she gets to spend so
much more time with you than I do.
KIRA
Jadzia and I have done this for the
past two years. It's becoming kind
of a tradition.
BAREIL
I was hoping we could start some
traditions of our own...
He embraces her.
KIRA
And we will...
(she kisses him, then
breaks away)
Later tonight.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/18/94 - ACT ONE 15.
14 CONTINUED: (2)
Bareil smiles. He knows when he's beaten.
15 INT. O'BRIEN'S QUARTERS
Keiko comes out of Molly's bedroom and joins O'Brien. She
looks exhausted.
O'BRIEN
She asleep?
KEIKO
(nods)
It looks like the medicine Doctor
Bashir prescribed is working...
O'BRIEN
That's a relief.
Keiko looks at her bags, which are still sitting in the middle
of the room. She goes to open them, then thinks better of
it and just sits down.
O'BRIEN
Rough trip, huh?
KEIKO
It was a disaster.
O'Brien sits down next to her on the couch and places his
hand on hers.
O'BRIEN
I'm glad you're home.
She squeezes his hand.
KEIKO
Me, too.
There's an awkward beat between them. O'Brien isn't really
sure what to do next.
O'BRIEN
We should get ready for the festival.
The babysitter will be here any
minute.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/19/94 - ACT ONE 16.
15 CONTINUED:
KEIKO
(unenthused)
The festival.
O'BRIEN
(quick backpedal)
On the other hand, we could spend
the day locked away in our quarters.
He moves closer to her on the couch and gives her a come-
hither look. Keiko considers it for a beat, but the fact
is, she's just not in the mood.
KEIKO
(a tired smile)
What I really want to do is sleep.
O'BRIEN
(his feelings hurt)
Then maybe you should.
KEIKO
Miles, I didn't say I was going to
sleep; I just meant I could use some.
O'BRIEN
That's okay. I mean... if you need
to sleep, go ahead. I'll understand.
KEIKO
No, you won't. You'll be disappointed
and you'll start brooding and stomping
around like an Andorian Bull.
O'BRIEN
Look, stay or go, it's all the same
to me... just tell me what you want
to do and we'll do it.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/19/94 - ACT ONE 17.
15 CONTINUED: (2)
KEIKO
Miles, I've been making decisions
all day. You decide.
O'BRIEN
(calming down)
Okay, we'll go to the festival.
(hedging)
But we don't have to go right away.
You can take some time to relax, and
change into something nice.
KEIKO
Nice?
O'BRIEN
You know... like your red dress.
KEIKO
My red dress? Really?
O'BRIEN
Something wrong with the red dress?
KEIKO
If it'll make you happy, I'll wear
the red dress.
O'BRIEN
Forget the red dress. Wear whatever
you want.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/19/94 - ACT ONE 18.
15 CONTINUED: (3)
KEIKO
Look, let's just try to enjoy the
next two days.
(a beat)
I'll change into something nice and
we'll go to the festival. Okay?
O'BRIEN
Fine.
Keiko leaves to go change. O'Brien watches her go. He's
not enjoying himself.
O'BRIEN
(to himself, ironic)
I can hardly wait.
16 INT. PROMENADE - OUTSIDE THE BAJORAN SHRINE
A large crowd, mostly Bajoran, has gathered in front of the
platform where Kira stands next to the unlit brazier. Many
people in the crowd are carrying paper scrolls and there are
baskets of additional scrolls on either side of the platform.
Among the crowd are Sisko, DAX, Bashir, Jake, Odo and Bareil.
Keiko and O'Brien are standing off to one side, not
participating as actively as the others. Keiko is wearing
one of her casual outfits (not the red dress). She looks
tired and O'Brien looks like a man whose balloon has just
popped.
Kira holds up a flask of oil and intones an ancient
ritualistic Bajoran blessing.
KIRA
Tesra Peldor impatri bren. Bentel
vetan ullon sten.
Kira holds the flask high and tilts it slowly. A stream of
burning liquid pours from the spout into the metal brazier,
setting the contents of the brazier alight.
The crowd breaks into cheers. Lwaxana comes up to Odo and
smiles as if to say, "Here I am." Odo, who has been watching
Kira intently, sighs and tries to smile in return.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT ONE 19.
16 CONTINUED:
KIRA
And now, I have the honor of placing
the first Renewal Scroll into the
fire.
(formal benediction)
As the scrolls burn, may all our
troubles turn to ashes with them.
She puts her scroll on the fire. The crowd cheers again,
even louder.
KIRA
(smiles)
Now, for the next twenty-six hours,
I expect you all to enjoy yourselves.
I know I will.
Dax looks at Bareil and gives him a knowing smile. Bareil
looks away, somewhat embarrassed.
KIRA
May the Prophets walk with us.
Some of the members of the crowd file forward and place their
scrolls on the fire. Everyone is happy and full of good
cheer.
17 CLOSE ON LWAXANA
As she gets hit by another quick headache. She rubs her
brow. Just then, in the background...
18 CLOSE ON BAREIL
Bareil also rubs his temples as if in reaction to Lwaxana's
headache.
19 CLOSE ON JAKE
Grimacing as he rubs his head. Sisko, who is standing next
to him, notices.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT ONE 20.
19 CONTINUED:
SISKO
Jake, you okay?
Jake's headache passes as quickly as it came.
JAKE
Just felt a little funny there for a
second.
SISKO
You sure you're all right?
Something catches Jake's eye. It's Kira stepping down from
the platform to join Bareil. Jake smiles.
JAKE
Yeah, Dad. Never felt better.
And as Jake looks at Kira with new appreciation, we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/17/94 - ACT TWO 21.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
20 INT. PROMENADE
Kira and Bareil are walking through a crowd of Bajoran
celebrants. The mood on the Promenade is boisterous.
Latecomers are taking scrolls from the baskets to write down
their problems. The kiosk and Quark's are doing brisk
business selling jumja sticks and other treats and there are
tumblers and acrobats performing for the crowd.
Bareil seems to be looking around the Promenade as if
surreptitiously searching for someone.
KIRA
Bareil?
She starts looking around too, wondering what he's searching
for.
KIRA
What are you looking for?
BAREIL
(distracted)
Nothing. Just looking.
But he continues to scan the crowd. Before Kira can dig
deeper, her attention is drawn to Jake... who appears out of
the crowd, carrying two jumja sticks, one of which he presents
to her with a goofy grin.
JAKE
Peldor Joi.
Kira smiles and accepts it.
KIRA
Jake, how thoughtful. Thank you.
JAKE
(shy)
Uh... I know you're busy, but can
I... talk to you for a second?
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/17/94 - ACT TWO 22.
20 CONTINUED:
KIRA
Sure.
Jake glances uncomfortably at Bareil.
JAKE
In private? It's kind of personal.
Kira looks over to Bareil to see if he doesn't mind.
KIRA
I'll be right back.
Jake and Kira move off, and as soon as they're gone, Bareil
wanders away, still searching through the crowd.
21 NEW ANGLE
On Jake and Kira, who haven't noticed Bareil's departure.
KIRA
So what can I do for you, Jake?
JAKE
I need some advice. You see, there's
this older woman... and I think we're
perfect for each other. But...
KIRA
(finishing for him)
But she doesn't.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/17/94 - ACT TWO 22.
21 CONTINUED:
JAKE
I'm not sure what she thinks.
KIRA
Well, my advice is to tell Mardah how
you feel. That way you'll know--
JAKE
(smiling, almost proud)
Mardah and I broke up.
KIRA
You broke up? Then who... ?
JAKE
You.
KIRA
(incredulous)
Me?
JAKE
(solemn)
I love you, Nerys.
(lighter)
Want to go out with me?
Kira looks at Jake. She can't believe what she's hearing.
22 INT. ANOTHER PART OF THE PROMENADE
Dax is sitting by the burning brazier, reading Morn's scroll
as Morn looks on. The scroll is covered front and back with
a blotchy alien script.
DAX
Morn, I can't believe a handsome,
fun-loving guy like you could have
so many problems.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT TWO 24.
22 CONTINUED:
DAX
(gives back the scroll)
My advice is to burn this as quickly
as possible and don't look back.
Morn nods, that's exactly what he was thinking. He tosses
the scroll into the fire with glee and strolls off.
BAREIL (O.S.)
Sage advice.
Dax turns and sees Bareil approaching her.
DAX
(a greeting)
Vedek Bareil, it's good to see you.
(a beat)
If you're looking for Nerys, she's
not here.
BAREIL
Actually, I was looking for you.
(sits down beside her)
I owe you an apology.
DAX
For what?
BAREIL
I have to confess, I've always been
a little jealous of your friendship
with Nerys.
DAX
That's understandable. When you
come to the station, you want her
all to yourself.
BAREIL
You have such a wise, generous spirit.
I only wish I had a friend like you.
DAX
I think of you as a friend.
BAREIL
Do you mean that?
DAX
Of course.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT TWO 25.
22 CONTINUED: (2)
BAREIL
I'm glad. Because I was hoping that
you and I could get to know each
other better.
Bareil moves a little closer to Dax and places his hand on
her knee.
BAREIL
(continues)
A lot better.
Dax looks down at Bareil's hand, then up at him. And off
his look of yearning...
CUT TO:
23 INT. PROMENADE - SECOND LEVEL
A trio of Bajoran musicians are playing a spritely tune.
Some people are standing by listening attentively, others
are just walking by and smiling at the music.
Off to one side, Odo and Lwaxana are watching the performance.
Odo is swaying slightly with the music.
LWAXANA
I love Bajoran music. It's so
intelligent, so vital... It reminds
me of you.
She reaches out and grabs his hands.
LWAXANA
Dance with me.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/18/94 - ACT TWO 26.
23 CONTINUED:
She begins dancing, leading Odo by the hands. But Odo
refuses to go along. He tries to remain firmly planted in
one place.
ODO
I'm sorry. I don't dance.
LWAXANA
Nonsense. I saw you moving to the
music.
ODO
That wasn't dancing. That was...
swaying.
LWAXANA
Then sway with me, Odo.
She tries to take him in her arms but Odo avoids her.
ODO
I just remembered, I'm needed in
Security.
LWAXANA
I'll come with you.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/25/94 - ACT TWO 27.
23 CONTINUED: (2)
She takes his arm and they begin to walk off.
24 NEW ANGLE
As Dax approaches.
ODO
Hello, Lieutenant. Having a good
time?
DAX
No.
Odo nods in empathy and sympathy. As Dax walks away, Lwaxana
rubs her temples absentmindedly. Dax does the same, but as
with Bareil and Jake, the headache passes as fast as it came.
25 INT. QUARK'S
Quark is standing by the window to the Promenade hawking
souvenirs. He's wearing a Bajoran earring and shouting to
be heard over the crowd.
QUARK
That's right... genuine latinum-plated
Renewal Scroll inscription pens.
Blessed by Vedek Redab himself...
shortly before he passed away. Each
pen is engraved with the words "Deep
Space Nine's Third Annual Gratitude
Festival," today's date, and a lovely
portrait of the station by Ermat
Zimm.
(louder)
So get them while you can, they're
sure to become collector's items.
We pan across a crowded Quark's. All the gambling tables
have been removed and the stage is being used by a juggler.
People are having a genuinely good time.
We pan up to...
26 INT. QUARK'S - SECOND LEVEL
Where O'Brien and Keiko are seated at a table. They're quiet
and a little uncomfortable and tentative now that they're
alone together.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT TWO 28.
26 CONTINUED:
This is a moment that they've been waiting for a long
time, and now that it's here, neither one of them knows quiet
what to do with it.
There's a plate of Bajoran hasparat on the table. Keiko is
picking at it to give herself something to do, but O'Brien's
not eating at all.
O'BRIEN
(trying to be upbeat)
So what do you say we go walk around
the Promenade for a little while?
KEIKO
I'd rather stay here.
(a beat)
I never thought I'd say this, but I
kind of miss Quark's... the noise,
the excitement... our table.
O'Brien smiles for the first time. This is more like it.
O'BRIEN
(proudly)
You know, I haven't sat here since
you've been gone.
KEIKO
(happy)
That's so sweet.
There's a brief awkward silence.
O'BRIEN
So how's the survey going?
KEIKO
The terrain's rougher than we
expected, and the ecosystem's a lot
more diverse than it looked from the
orbital scans. All in all, it's
been pretty grueling.
This is what O'Brien was hoping to hear.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT TWO 29.
26 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
Really?
KEIKO
Don't get me wrong, I'm having a
wonderful time.
O'BRIEN
(deflated)
Oh... that's good.
Keiko wasn't looking to bring this up, but it seems like an
opportune time.
KEIKO
There is one problem I have to talk
to you about.
(off his reaction)
The project's taking longer than we
hoped.
O'BRIEN
What do you mean... longer?
KEIKO
You have to understand, Miles, every
valley has an entirely different
ecosystem. There's a lot of work to
be done.
O'BRIEN
(wants the bottom
line)
How much longer is it going to take?
KEIKO
I'm not sure.
O'BRIEN
(a little agitated)
Take a guess. An extra couple of
days... a week or two?
KEIKO
(not happy)
More like two or three months.
O'BRIEN
You're telling me you're going to be
on Bajor for another seven months.
KEIKO
It's either that or tell them to
find another botanist.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT TWO 30.
26 CONTINUED: (3)
O'BRIEN
Maybe that's something worth
considering.
Keiko is shocked and disappointed by her husband's attitude.
KEIKO
Are you asking me to resign?
O'BRIEN
No... But another seven months?
KEIKO
I don't like this any more than you
do.
O'BRIEN
(not buying it)
You just said you're enjoying
yourself.
KEIKO
(sarcastic)
Oh, I'm sorry. I suppose you'd be
happier if I was miserable?
O'BRIEN
I didn't say that.
KEIKO
Sebarr was right. I never should've
mentioned it.
O'BRIEN
And who's Sebarr?
KEIKO
He's one of the zoologists I'm working
with. He warned me not to talk to
you about this until after the
Gratitude Festival..
O'BRIEN
Who's he to be giving you advice?
KEIKO
He's a friend.
O'BRIEN
A friend? I thought you were down
there working.
KEIKO
We are working.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT TWO 31.
26 CONTINUED: (4)
O'BRIEN
With time out for intimate little
chats about our relationship? What
else have you told him about us?
KEIKO
Miles, you're acting like a child.
What do you want me to say?
O'BRIEN
(finally spits it out)
I want you to say you're not going
back... that you're going to stay
here with me.
KEIKO
Right now, Miles, I don't even want
to sit at the same table with you.
Keiko gets up and leaves. O'Brien loses his temper.
O'BRIEN
(shouting after her)
Fine. Leave. Go on back to Bajor...
and your plants... and Sebarr.
But she's already gone.
O'BRIEN
(to himself)
See if I care.
O'Brien slumps back down in his chair, the most miserable
man in the galaxy. And we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT THREE 32.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
27 INT. PROMENADE
Jake is cutting through the crowd, a man on a mission. His
eyes dart around as he searches for the love of his life...
Kira Nerys.
Suddenly, someone appears out of the crowd and grabs hold of
Jake's arm. It's Sisko.
SISKO
Whoa, slow down.
Jake stops but his mind is still on his goal.
JAKE
Hi, Dad.
SISKO
I've been looking all over for you.
In case you've forgotten, we're
hosting a Gratitude Dinner tonight
in the wardroom, and I could use
your help getting ready.
JAKE
I'm kind of busy right now, Dad. I
have to find someone.
SISKO
(that's what he was
afraid of)
Major Kira?
JAKE
How did you know?
SISKO
I just spoke to her.
JAKE
Really? Where is she?
He starts looking around.
SISKO
Just hold on.
JAKE
But I need to talk to her. You know,
you were right about me meeting
someone at the Festival.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/17/94 - ACT THREE 33.
27 CONTINUED:
SISKO
I didn't mean Major Kira.
JAKE
You like her, don't you?
SISKO
Of course I like her.
JAKE
So do I.
SISKO
Jake, what you're feeling... it's
just a crush.
They sit down on the Promenade couch.
SISKO
Look, right now... you're confused,
hurt, vulnerable. You miss Mardah...
JAKE
Mardah was a mistake, Dad. She was
too young, too immature for me.
Major Kira is a woman.
SISKO
Major Kira is in love with Vedek
Bareil.
JAKE
It won't last. He's always on Bajor.
She needs someone who can be with
her all the time. Like me.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT THREE 34.
27 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO
Jake, I don't want to see you hurt
again.
JAKE
I appreciate that, Dad... but this
is between Nerys and me.
(stands up)
Don't worry. Everything's going to
be fine.
Jake walks away. Sisko wants to stop him, but realizes that
some lessons have to be learned the hard way.
28 INT. PROMENADE - OUTSIDE QUARK'S
Odo and Lwaxana are walking away from the window where one
of Quark's Ferengi waiters has taken his place hawking the
inscription pens.
Odo is holding one of the pens and looking at it with a marked
lack of enthusiasm.
ODO
I really can't accept this.
LWAXANA
But I want you to have it. It's my
gift to you.
ODO
That's very thoughtful... but I have
nothing to give you in return.
LWAXANA
Being with you is the only present I
need.
(snuggles up to him)
Now let's go write our Renewal
Scrolls.
Odo sighs, beaten again. The two of them walk off down the
Promenade.
29 INT. QUARK'S
A miserable O'Brien is sitting at the bar, rubbing his
temples. Quark comes over to serve him.
QUARK
Peldor Joi, Chief.
(a beat)
You look terrible.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/17/94 - ACT THREE 35.
29 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Just a little headache, that's all.
QUARK
Here... have a free pen.
He offers O'Brien a souvenir pen. O'Brien takes it and looks
at it.
O'BRIEN
What for?
QUARK
To write down your problems on a
Renewal Scroll.
O'BRIEN
There isn't a scroll long enough to
hold all my problems.
QUARK
Really? I thought you could sum
them up with one word.
(a beat)
Keiko.
O'Brien glares at Quark.
QUARK
Tell me I'm wrong.
(off O'Brien's reaction)
If you ask me, it's your own fault.
You never should've let her go to
Bajor in the first place.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT THREE 36-37.
29 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
And what was I supposed to do? Force
her to stay here with me?
QUARK
That would've been a good start.
(chiding)
You humans never learn. You let
your women go out in public, hold
jobs, wear clothing, and you wonder
why your marriages fall apart.
O'BRIEN
That's your solution, Quark? Treat
women like property?
QUARK
Criticize it all you want. But on
the Ferengi homeworld, husbands and
wives never argue. There's no
divorce, no broken homes... nothing
but peaceful conjugal bliss.
O'BRIEN
If Ferengi marriages are so wonderful,
how come you're still single?
QUARK
(defensive)
I haven't met the right woman yet.
O'BRIEN
(miserable)
Well I have. And she just walked
out that door.
QUARK
And out of your life.
O'Brien realizes that his marriage has reached a critical
point. He stands up.
O'BRIEN
Not if I can help it.
O'Brien EXITS, determined to set things right.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT THREE 38.
30 INT. CORRIDOR
This is a corridor just off the Promenade. In the distance,
we can hear the sounds of the ongoing celebration.
Kira is walking along the corridor. She meets up with Bareil,
hurrying the other way.
KIRA
Bareil. I was wondering where you
disappeared to.
She goes to kiss him, but he turns his head a little so it
becomes more of a peck on the cheek.
KIRA
(playful)
Come on. You can do better than
that.
BAREIL
(trying to hide his
discomfort)
Someone might see us.
KIRA
We're the only people here. Everyone
else is on the Promenade.
Kira senses something's wrong, but tries to push past it.
KIRA
We have two hours until we're supposed
to join Commander Sisko for dinner.
That gives us some time to be alone
together.
BAREIL
I can't.
KIRA
Why?
BAREIL
I have to find Jadzia.
KIRA
Jadzia? Is something wrong?
BAREIL
Not at all.
(a beat)
Have you seen her?
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT THREE 39.
30 CONTINUED:
KIRA
She's probably on the Promenade.
BAREIL
She wasn't there the last time I
looked.
KIRA
Why is it so important for you to
talk to Jadzia?
BAREIL
I'll explain everything later.
He starts to move away, then turns back toward Kira.
BAREIL
Thank you, Nerys.
KIRA
For what?
He pats her on the shoulder.
BAREIL
For being such a good friend.
Bareil walks away, leaving behind a very confused and worried
Kira.
KIRA
Friend?
31 INT. WARDROOM
Sisko ENTERS to find Dax setting up the room for a buffet
dinner.
SISKO
(surprised to see her)
Dax, what are you doing here?
DAX
I thought you might need some help
getting ready for the party.
He goes to give her a hand.
SISKO
Thanks, but that's really not
necessary. Wouldn't you rather be
celebrating on the Promenade?
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT THREE 40.
31 CONTINUED:
DAX
No thank you. I don't want to run
into Vedek Bareil.
SISKO
Is there a problem between you two?
DAX
He can't keep his hands off me.
SISKO
That doesn't sound like Vedek Bareil.
DAX
I couldn't believe it either, but
the man wouldn't leave me alone.
He's probably still out there looking
for me.
SISKO
(troubled)
Have you told Kira?
DAX
I don't know how. It's going to
break her heart.
Sisko sits down. This is all very unsettling to him.
SISKO
Someone has to tell her.
(a beat)
You want me to do it?
Dax sits down next to Sisko.
DAX
Would you?
SISKO
If you think that's the best way to
handle it.
DAX
I really appreciate this, Benjamin.
I mean, the whole thing's ridiculous.
How could I be interested in Bareil?
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT THREE 41.
31 CONTINUED: (2)
Suddenly, she leans over and snuggles her head against
his shoulder.
DAX
We both know it's always been you.
And as Sisko reacts to this sudden and unexpected display of
affection, we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FOUR 42.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
32 INT. WARDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Sisko looks at Dax, who's seems incredibly content with her
head on his shoulder.
SISKO
Dax?
DAX
(happy as a clam)
Mmm?
SISKO
What are you doing?
DAX
Making myself comfortable.
She snuggles closer and puts her arms around his waist.
DAX
Have I ever told you that you smell
wonderful?
Sisko gently pushes her away and smiles. He looks at her
like he's seen through her joke.
SISKO
I have to admit, old man, you had me
going there for a minute.
DAX
Benjamin, you can stop acting so
coy. No one's around.
She shifts her position, spinning around and laying her head
in Sisko's lap.
DAX
I've got an idea. Why don't you
cancel the party? That way we can
spend the evening alone together.
She takes Sisko's hand and cups it to her face.
DAX
What do you say?
With his free hand, Sisko taps his combadge.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT FOUR 43.
32 CONTINUED:
SISKO
(to com)
Sisko to Bashir.
BASHIR'S COM VOICE
Go ahead, Commander.
SISKO
Meet me in the Infirmary immediately.
BASHIR'S COM VOICE
I'll be right there.
Dax looks up at Sisko.
DAX
Can I come, too?
Sisko studies Dax for a beat.
SISKO
Absolutely.
33 INT. SURGERY
Dax is sitting on one of the examination tables, looking at
Sisko and Bashir. Bashir is reading test results from a
monitor.
BASHIR
(off readouts)
Her vital signs are normal... Brain
activity's normal... no sign of
infection or intoxication of any
kind...
(turns to Sisko)
She's the picture of health.
Dax jumps off the table and comes to join them.
DAX
(reprovingly)
I told you.
SISKO
Then why did you put your head in my
lap?
DAX
(smiling mischievously)
Julian, you should've seen his face.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FOUR 44.
33 CONTINUED:
DAX
(to Sisko)
Admit it, you were this far from
total panic.
BASHIR
(smiles, to Sisko)
I think we've both been victims of a
practical joke.
DAX
At least someone around here has a
sense of humor.
(to Sisko)
Remember the time Curzon convinced
you that the Romulan ambassador's
wife was in love with you?
(grins)
This was even better.
(to Bashir)
See you at the party, Julian.
Dax puts her arm through Sisko's and they EXIT. Bashir smiles
and shakes his head.
34 INT. PROMENADE
The crowd has thinned out as people have begun going back to
their quarters to prepare for private Gratitude Dinners.
Dax and Sisko walk out onto the Promenade, arm in arm.
DAX
I've never been so embarrassed in my
life... making me sit through all
those tests...
Sisko smiles. Though he was worried, the way things worked
out, he actually feels like he may have gotten the better of
her.
SISKO
It's your own fault, Dax. You took
this one too far.
DAX
You know, if I didn't love you so
much, I'd be very angry with you
right now.
She leans forward and kisses Sisko on the ear. Sisko reacts
in confusion.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/17/94 - ACT FOUR 45.
34 CONTINUED:
DAX
(seductive)
I'll see you at the party.
Dax EXITS.
35
thru OMITTED
36
37 INT. REPLIMAT
Close on Kira, sitting by herself at a table, looking lonely
and depressed. Suddenly someone drops down into the seat
next to her. It's Jake.
JAKE
You look like you could use some
cheering up.
Kira, who's still hurting over Bareil's behavior, is really
in no mood for Jake right now.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/17/94 - ACT FOUR 46.
37 CONTINUED:
KIRA
Do me a favor, Jake.
JAKE
Anything.
KIRA
(stern)
Leave me alone.
Kira gets up and walks away. Jake sits there watching her,
a lovesick smile on his face. He turns to Morn, who is
sitting at the next table.
JAKE
Isn't she beautiful?
Morn nods.
38 INT. O'BRIEN'S QUARTERS
O'Brien ENTERS to find Molly, in nightclothes, playing with
her stuffed Targ.
O'BRIEN
Hi, sweetie. Feeling better?
MOLLY
Lots better.
O'BRIEN
Ah, that's what I wanted to hear.
He hugs and kisses his daughter.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FOUR 47.
38 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Where's Mommy?
MOLLY
In her room. She's sad.
O'BRIEN
Well why don't you play with Piggy
in your room for a while and we'll
see if Daddy can cheer Mommy up?
MOLLY
Okay.
Molly takes her stuffed animal and walks away.
39 NEW ANGLE
O'Brien walks over to the closed door of his and Keiko's
room. He starts talking through the door.
O'BRIEN
Keiko? It's me. Can I come in?
KEIKO (O.S.)
(through the door)
Not now, Miles.
O'BRIEN
Look, you're right. I'm an idiot,
sometimes. When I don't get my way,
I can be selfish and childish and
pigheaded. I know I've said some
pretty stupid things today. I wish
I could take them back.
(really hurting)
But even if it's too late for that,
there's one thing you should know...
I love you, Keiko. I always have,
and I always will.
(a beat)
Anyway, I just want you to know I've
left a letter of resignation on
Commander Sisko's desk. I'm ready
to move down to Bajor tomorrow, if
you'll have me. And after that if
you want us to move back to Earth
that's okay too. I'll do whatever
it takes... I just don't want to
lose you.
(a beat)
Honey, did you hear what I said?
KEIKO (O.S.)
(through the door)
Yes.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FOUR 48.
39 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
(hopeful)
And... ?
There's a long silence, then...
KEIKO (O.S.)
(through the door)
And I need time to think. Why don't
you go to Commander Sisko's party?
We can talk when you get back.
O'Brien looks crushed, but knows better than to push his
luck.
O'BRIEN
If that's what you want.
There's no answer.
40 OMITTED
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FOUR 49.
41 INT. CORRIDOR
This is the same corridor Bareil and Kira were in previously.
Kira is walking down the corridor when she runs into Odo,
Lwaxana and Bashir going the other way.
ODO
Major. Aren't you headed in the
wrong direction?
BASHIR
(off her look)
Commander Sisko's party?
KIRA
I'm not going.
LWAXANA
Why ever not?
KIRA
Because Bareil will be there.
ODO
I thought the two of you were very
happy together.
KIRA
So did I. But it turns out he'd
rather be with Dax than me. And to
make things worse, Jake Sisko's
chasing me all over the station,
professing his undying love.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FOUR 50.
41 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
That's strange. A little while ago,
Jadzia had Commander Sisko convinced
that she was in love with him. He
even had me examine her to make sure
she was all right. Apparently it
was only a joke.
KIRA
Are you sure? A lot of people are
acting strange today.
BASHIR
Maybe I'd better take another look
at Jadzia's test results.
(to Odo)
Constable, could you tell Commander
Sisko I'll be a little late?
Odo nods and he and Lwaxana continue on. Just as she passes
out of sight, Lwaxana rubs her forehead.
42 NEW ANGLE
On Bashir and Kira. Both Bashir and Kira rub their temples
momentarily.
BASHIR
I should get to the Infirmary.
KIRA
I'll join you.
They begin to walk.
KIRA
Maybe you should examine Bareil and
Jake while you're at it.
BASHIR
That's not a bad idea.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT FOUR 51.
42 CONTINUED:
They turn a corner.
43 INT. SURGERY
Kira and Bashir ENTER the surgery section of the Infirmary.
BASHIR
This won't take long.
But instead of moving toward the monitors, Bashir turns to
Kira, and suddenly they both throw their arms around each
other and kiss passionately.
And as the kiss grows more intense...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - 10/10/94 - ACT FIVE 52.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
44 INT. WARDROOM
The Wardroom table is set with numerous trays of food. Sisko,
Dax, Odo, O'Brien, Jake, Bareil, and Lwaxana are scattered
around the Wardroom, eating dinner.
O'Brien is seated alone in one corner of the room, barely
picking at his food. He looks sad and abandoned.
45 LWAXANA AND ODO
Are seated not far away. For a change, they're not talking.
When Lwaxana finally speaks, after a beat of awkward silence,
it's with serious concern as opposed to her usual vivacity.
LWAXANA
What is it, Odo?
(off his reaction)
I may not be able to read your
emotions, but I can read your
expression. Something's wrong.
ODO
I'm fine.
LWAXANA
(frowns)
I wish you'd tell me what's bothering
you. It might make you feel better.
ODO
As soon as something bothers me,
I'll let you know.
(gives her a small
smile)
I promise.
LWAXANA
Why is it I find stubborn men so
attractive?
46 NEW ANGLE
To include the buffet table, where Dax is piling her plate
full of food. Bareil is standing next to her, looking at
her like a lovesick puppy.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 53.
46 CONTINUED:
DAX
Would you please stop following me?
BAREIL
Gladly... if you'll stop running
away. I have something important to
discuss with you.
DAX
Discuss it with Kira. I'm not
interested.
She turns and walks away.
BAREIL
But I don't want to talk to Kira.
47 ANGLE ON SISKO AND JAKE
Sisko is at another part of the buffet table, looking like
he's not having the greatest time either as he's being
pestered by Jake.
JAKE
But Dad, you promised that Nerys
would be here.
SISKO
She will be. And stop calling her
Nerys.
Suddenly Sisko stiffens as he is goosed by someone off-screen.
He turns around and sees it's Dax.
DAX
(mischievous)
Peldor Joi.
She walks away, looking over her shoulder, giving him a come-
hither look. Odo and Lwaxana, who have witnessed this
exchange, join Sisko.
LWAXANA
Commander, I didn't know you and
Lieutenant Dax were so close.
SISKO
(troubled)
We're not.
(hits combadge)
Sisko to Bashir.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 54.
47 CONTINUED:
There's no response.
SISKO
(to com)
Computer, locate Doctor Bashir.
COMPUTER VOICE
Doctor Bashir is in the Infirmary.
Sisko turns to Odo.
SISKO
Constable, I want you to get him and
bring him here immediately.
Odo nods his agreement.
ODO
(to Lwaxana)
I'll be right back.
LWAXANA
I'll come with you.
ODO
(that's what he
expected)
Of course you will.
48 INT. SURGERY
Kira is seated on a console, embracing Bashir, who's standing
in front of her. They are kissing with the frenzied passion
of two high-schoolers at the prom.
BASHIR
I wonder what Commander Sisko wanted?
KIRA
It can wait.
BASHIR
(between kisses)
This is very embarrassing.
KIRA
(still kissing)
I agree. We have to stop.
BASHIR
Definitely.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 54A.
48 CONTINUED:
But they don't even slow down.
49 NEW ANGLE
As Odo and Lwaxana ENTER.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/10/94 - ACT FIVE 55.
49 CONTINUED:
ODO
Doctor...
Odo stops as he sees what's going on. Bashir breaks off for
a second, but Kira keeps kissing his neck.
Odo can hardly speak, and if changelings could blush, he'd
be bright red.
ODO
Commander Sisko needs to see you in
the Wardroom.
BASHIR
Tell him...
(as Kira kisses him)
I'll be along shortly.
ODO
(stern)
Now, Doctor.
And there's something in his voice that makes Lwaxana study
Odo with new insight.
KIRA
(to Bashir)
You'd better go.
BASHIR
Right.
They walk out hand in hand.
KIRA
(to Lwaxana and Odo)
Peldor Joi.
They EXIT, leaving Odo standing there, stricken.
50 INT. WARDROOM
Dax is standing behind Sisko with her arms draped over his
chest. She's using him as a shield to avoid Bareil. Sisko
is trying to extricate himself from Dax while at the same
time keeping himself between her and Bareil.
BAREIL
Please step aside, Commander. I
need to talk to Jadzia in private.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 56.
50 CONTINUED:
SISKO
I'm afraid she doesn't want to talk
to you.
DAX
You tell him, Benjamin.
BAREIL
But I only want to give her this.
Bareil holds up and beautiful latinum bracelet.
SISKO
A Bajoran betrothal bracelet?
DAX
Can I see that?
Dax reaches over Sisko's shoulder and plucks the bracelet
out of Bareil's hand. Just then the doors open and Kira and
Bashir, still holding hands, ENTER, followed by Odo and
Lwaxana. Jake runs up to Kira.
JAKE
Nerys, am I glad to see you.
Kira walks right by him. Jake sees that she's holding hands
with Bashir. He's crushed.
Bashir and Kira reach Sisko, who steps out from between Dax
and Bareil.
SISKO
Doctor, I need your help.
BASHIR
I need yours too.
Bashir leans over to speak to Sisko without letting go of
Kira's hand.
BASHIR
You've got to get me away from Kira.
I can't keep my hands off her.
Kira kisses Bashir.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/10/94 - ACT FIVE 57.
50 CONTINUED: (2)
KIRA
And what's worse, I can't keep my
hands off him.
Sisko looks to Odo.
ODO
I can't explain it either.
51 NEW ANGLE
As Jake sits down next to O'Brien.
JAKE
She doesn't love me.
O'Brien's too wrapped up in his own problems to get too worked
up about Jake's.
O'BRIEN
Who?
JAKE
Nerys.
O'BRIEN
You're better off. In the end, they
only break your heart.
Just then O'Brien's attention is drawn to the door as Keiko
ENTERS. She's wearing a beautiful, form-fitting red dress.
O'Brien's jaw drops. He's amazed.
O'BRIEN
(to himself)
Although sometimes it's worth it.
O'Brien walks up to Keiko.
KEIKO
(re: the dress)
What do you think?
O'BRIEN
You look beautiful.
KEIKO
Miles, did you really hand in your
resignation?
O'Brien nods.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/10/94 - ACT FIVE 58.
51 CONTINUED:
KEIKO
You'd better get it back before
Commander Sisko sees it.
(a beat)
But it was nice of you to offer.
They kiss, gently, intimately, then embrace.
KEIKO
I love you so much.
As they kiss again, Quark ENTERS, carrying a tray of food.
He spots Sisko and joins him.
QUARK
(re: the food)
Commander, here's that Idanian spice
pudding you ordered...
But before Sisko can acknowledge Quark, Dax steps up behind
him and takes him by the shoulder. She gently turns him
toward her until their faces are inches apart.
DAX
I want you to have this...
(she gives him the
betrothal bracelet)
As a token of my affection.
This is the last straw for Bareil, who is only a few feet
away.
BAREIL
Oh, no you don't.
Bareil punches Sisko, who's more surprised than hurt. Quark,
who's been caught in the middle of this, tries desperately
to get out of the way and avoid spilling the tray of pudding.
Bareil unloads with another couple of swings, which Sisko
blocks.
SISKO
Bareil, listen to me...
BAREIL
If I have to fight for her I will.
Bareil takes another swing, Sisko blocks it, and Dax steps
up to Bareil and decks him. Quark once again has to make a
heroic effort not to spill the pudding.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 59.
51 CONTINUED: (2)
DAX
(to Sisko)
I'm sorry, Benjamin, but he was really
starting to annoy me.
QUARK
Commander... You throw one hell of a
party.
Quark offers the tray of pudding cups to Lwaxana.
QUARK
Pudding, anyone?
Lwaxana massages her temples, overcome by another severe
headache.
LWAXANA
No thank you.
Quark also grabs his forehead. Sisko and Odo both notice
his gesture and exchange a look.
DAX
I'll take one.
But as Dax reaches out for a pudding cup...
QUARK
(his mind elsewhere)
Help yourself.
Quark absentmindedly hands the whole tray to Dax, his
attention totally focussed on something across the room.
52 INCLUDE KEIKO AND O'BRIEN
Who, along with Bashir, have gone to see if Bareil is all
right. The Vedek has sat up, but he's holding his jaw.
KEIKO
Are you okay?
Suddenly Quark drops to his knees next to Keiko.
QUARK
Forget about him. What about me?
(off her reaction)
I need you Keiko. My lobes tingle
at the sight of you...
(a beat)
Marry me.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 60.
52 CONTINUED:
O'Brien grabs Quark by the lapels and hauls him to his
feet.
O'BRIEN
She's taken, Quark...
Sisko and Odo come up and restrain O'Brien. They've witnessed
the entire chain of events, Lwaxana's headache, followed
immediately by Quark's headache, and Quark's subsequent
attraction to Keiko, and they think they've identified the
source of the problem.
SISKO
Easy, Chief. He doesn't know what
he's doing.
Sisko and Odo turn toward Lwaxana, who looks surprised.
LWAXANA
What are you looking at me for?
53 INT. SURGERY
Bashir has just completed examining Lwaxana as Sisko watches.
LWAXANA
Zanthi Fever? But that's impossible.
It only effects... older Betazoids.
BASHIR
That may be, but according to my
tests, you're showing all the
symptoms.
(to Sisko)
Zanthi Fever is a virus that effects
the empathic abilities of... mature
Betazoids. It causes them to project
their own emotions onto others.
SISKO
So then Mrs. Troi's amorous feelings
for...
(delicately)
... someone on the station were being
passed along to the people around
her.
BASHIR
Not everyone. Only people who were
in close proximity to her when she
had an attack. And even then there
would have to have been a pre-existing
latent attraction.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 61.
53 CONTINUED:
SISKO
You're saying Dax... ?
BASHIR
Only on a subconscious level.
(a beat)
Best not to think about it too much,
if you ask me.
This gives Sisko one more thing to worry about.
LWAXANA
Commander, I'm so sorry. I hope I
haven't caused you too much trouble.
SISKO
I doubt there was any permanent harm
done.
(to Bashir, hopeful)
Right, Doctor?
BASHIR
A simple wide spectrum antiviral
agent should cure Mrs. Troi, and as
for everyone else... they should
return to normal in a day or two.
Bashir puts down his medical tricorder.
BASHIR
Now if you'll excuse me, I promised
I'd meet Nerys in her quarters.
As he turns to go, Sisko lays a gentle restraining hand on
his shoulder.
SISKO
I think you ought to postpone that
visit. For a day or two.
Bashir looks disappointed, but sees the wisdom of Sisko's
advice.
54 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE - STOCK (OPTICAL)
As usual.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 62.
54 CONTINUED:
SISKO (V.O.)
Commander's log, supplemental. I'm
happy to report that Doctor Bashir's
diagnosis has been proven correct.
My son and all the other's affected
by Mrs. Troi's condition have made
full recoveries.
55 INT. PROMENADE - SECOND LEVEL
Odo and Lwaxana walk by the viewports. The Gratitude Festival
decorations are gone.
LWAXANA
Well, this is one Gratitude Festival
they'll be talking about for a long
time.
ODO
I know I'll never forget it.
LWAXANA
I hope everything works out for you,
Odo.
(off his puzzled look)
With Major Kira.
ODO
I don't know what you mean.
LWAXANA
Don't worry. Your secret is safe
with me. After all, I know what
it's like to be attracted to someone
who doesn't necessarily feel the
same way.
Odo's silence serves to confirm Lwaxana's suspicions.
LWAXANA
But if you ever get tired of waiting
for her...
She kisses him.
LWAXANA
You know where to find me.
ODO
(gently)
I'll keep that in mind.
She smiles and walks away.
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/11/94 - ACT FIVE 63.
56 INT. DOCKING RING CORRIDOR
Keiko, O'Brien and Molly are saying their good-byes at the
airlock.
KEIKO
So, you're sure Doctor Bashir said
your test results were negative?
O'BRIEN
That's right. My headache was just
a headache. I never was affected by
Mrs. Troi.
KEIKO
(playful)
I guess that means you don't have a
latent attraction to me after all.
O'BRIEN
There's nothing latent about it. Or
weren't you paying attention last
night?
KEIKO
I was paying attention all right.
You've still got the touch, O'Brien.
O'BRIEN
So do you... , O'Brien.
O'Brien bends down to talk to Molly.
O'BRIEN
Take good care of Mommy, honey.
MOLLY
I will.
He gives her a hug and a kiss, then straightens up to take
Keiko in his arms and give her one last kiss goodbye.
KEIKO
See you in a few months.
O'BRIEN
I can hardly wait.
And with one last look, Molly and Keiko climb the steps into
the airlock and disappear down the corridor.
O'Brien watches them for a beat, then...
DEEP SPACE: "Fascination" - REV. 10/10/94 - ACT FIVE 64.
BASHIR (O.S.)
Chief?
O'Brien turns and sees Bashir standing down the hall, carrying
two racquetball racquets. Without another word, Bashir tosses
one of the racquets to O'Brien, who catches it with one hand.
O'Brien glances at the closed airlock doors, then he and
Bashir walk side-by-side away down the corridor.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END